Small Ways to Make a Big Difference in Your Local Community

Most people would love to give back to their communities - but don't know where to start. Giving back can seem so significant, but the simple truth is that even the smallest acts of kindness can make a difference.

Those hoping to make a difference and give back will be happy to learn that there are countless little ways to give back to a community, all of which will ultimately make a significant difference. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Volunteer

Donating your time and experience is a wonderful way to help a community in need. In nearly every city, nonprofits and other organizations need volunteers. Food banks, hospitals, animal shelters, youth centers, and schools need extra assistance. Even just an hour or two can go a long way.

Donate Blood

Another way to make a difference is to donate blood. According to the American Red Cross, every blood donation has the potential to save up to three lives. That is three lives you could be directly helping by donating your blood.

Shop Local

Shopping may not feel like a way to make a difference, but if you shop locally, that is precisely what you are doing. By shopping locally, you are investing your money into the local economy. Furthermore, if you were to shop at local small businesses, you would be directly supporting them, as opposed to larger corporations that don't need your money.

Recycle

Recycling is perhaps one of the simplest ways to make a difference. Following basic recycling practices can easily make a difference in the environment. Enthusiastic recyclers can take this further by supporting plastic-neutral companies (such as Grove), starting a recycling initiative, or joining a local campaign.

Attend Community Meetings & Councils

Community meetings and councils help people stay connected to their community. They are commonly open forums that allow for discussions on new policies and concerns. Showing up and sharing your voice is an excellent way to ensure that the community's needs come first.

Adopt a Neighbor

Could somebody in your neighborhood use a little extra help? Perhaps you have an elderly neighbor who could use help mowing their lawn or shoveling snow. Or maybe your neighbor merely needs help getting groceries inside. Whatever their need is, consider lending a hand whenever possible.

Mentoring

Being a mentor is a beautiful way to give back to the community. There are many ways to sign up to be a mentor, including through the YMCA, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, and Futurpreneur. Best of all, mentors can be of any age, as can those who need them.

Help Clean Up

If you live near a beach or local park, the odds are that you've heard about local cleanup initiatives. The community drives these to help make spaces cleaner and safer. A simple way to participate is by signing up when you see these events occurring. Alternatively, you could take it upon yourself to organize a community cleanup day.

Charity Walks

Walking is an easy and low-impact way to get some exercise into your routine. It's also a common way for people to give back. Each year there are thousands of charity walks to participate in, from cancer awareness walks to local food or funding walks. Keep your eyes open for the next one if you hope to help.

Make Supplies for Animal Shelters

Most of the time, people will think of what they need to buy if they want to donate supplies to local shelters. But did you know that there are things you can make? Cage comforters can help make a space feel safer for an animal, and they're super easy to make.